Jehovah's WitnessesWatchtower Bible and Tract Society of New Yorkand United Nations, (UN)

Recently the NGO Section has been receiving numerous inquiries regarding the association of the Watchtower Bible and Tract Society of New York with the Departement of Public Information (DPI). This organization applied for association with DPI in1991and wasgranted association in 1992. By accepting association with DPI, the organization agreed to meet criteria for association, including support and respect of the principles of Charter of the United Nations and commitment and means to conduct effective information programmes with its constituents and to a broader audience about UN activities.

In October 2001, the Main Representative of Watchtwer Bible and Tract Society of New York to the United Nations, Giro Aulicino, requested termination of its association with DPI. Following this request, the DPI made a decision to disassociate the Watchtower Bible Tract Society of New Yorkas 9 October 2001.

Please be informed that it is the policy of Departement of Public Information of the United Nations to keep correspondence between the United Nations and NGOs associated with DPI confidential. However, please see below the paragraph included in all letters sent to NGOs approved for association in 1992:

" The principal purpose of association of non-governmental organizations with the United Nations Departement of Public Information is the redissemination of information in order to increase public understanding of the principles, activities and achievements of the United Nations and its Agencies. Consequently, it is important that you should keep us informed about your organization's information programme as it relates to the United Nations, including sending us issues of your relevant publications. We are enclosing a brochure on "The United Nations and Non-Governmental Organizations", Which will give you some information regarding the NGO relationship."

In addition, the criteria for NGOs to become associated with DPI include the following:

That the NGO share the principles of the UN Charter;

operate solely on a not-for-profit basis;

have a demonstrated interest in United Nations issues and proven ability to reach large or specialized audiences, such as educators, media representatives, polocy makers and the business community;

have the commitment and means to conduct effective information programmes about UN activities by publishing newsletters, bulletins and pamphlets, organizing conferences, seminars and round tables; and enlisting the cooperation of the media.

We expect that you will share this information with you concerned colleagues, as we are unable to address the scores of diplicate requests regarding the Watchtower Bible Tract Society that are being directed to our offices. Thank you for your interest in the work of United Nations.